College campuses are notorious for party culture – and often where there is a party there is alcohol. Unfortunately, the presence of alcohol can lead to a host of criminal offenses, especially for those under age. The severity of charges can range from minor crimes, like an open container or underage drinking, to more severe misdemeanors like a DUI charge. It is essential for students and parents to be aware of what alcohol-related crimes are and how they can affect one’s future.
Underage Drinking
One of the most common alcohol-related crimes on a college campus is underage drinking. It is illegal for a person under 21 to transport, possess, consume, or purchase alcohol. Many college students ignore this law and believe that it is not a big deal. However, these charges often include the payment of hefty fines, court costs, and in some cases, the mandatory suspension of driving privileges. According to attorney Jason Dunkle, in cases involving minors in possession, “police do not need to administer field sobriety, breath tests, or blood test” to prove that a person has been drinking.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense, but it often occurs near or on college campuses. A DUI occurs when a person operating a vehicle has a blood alcohol of 0.08 or higher. Unfortunately, some college students may not fully understand the risks of driving under the influence or they may make poor decisions while under the influence. According to the attorneys at JD Law, being convicted of a DUI can have serious consequences including large fines, license suspension, and jail time. It can also have a collateral effect making it more difficult to find a job or leading to a suspension.
Public Intoxication
Public intoxication is a common alcohol-related crime. This criminal charge occurs when a person appears to be under the influence of alcohol and is behaving recklessly and/or endangering others in a public place. Tailgating, day parties, and nights out can easily lead to displays of public intoxication. Part of this is due to the binge drinking culture that often occurs on college campuses. If someone is charged with public intoxication, they can face fines and even jail time.
False Identification
Providing alcohol to minors is illegal in some states and can result in criminal charges. There is a misconception that it is “safe” to use a fake ID in a college town; however, many college students learn the hard way that a lot of college towns are anything but lenient on false identification. If one gets caught using a fake ID, one could be charged with a summary offense up to a misdemeanor. If a person is convicted, they could face fines and probation.
Alcohol-related offenses can result in fines, and license suspensions, and can result in a criminal record that may impact future job opportunities. It is essential for college students to be aware of the potential criminal charges for alcohol-related crimes and how engaging in alcohol-related crimes can negatively impact their future.